There have been plenty of films to still enjoy this year – even amongst the variety of strikes that have taken place this year and here’s a few of our favourites!
Killers of the Flower Moon: I’m ashamed to say that this is a part of (horrific) history I was completely unaware of before going into this brilliant and compelling film based on the true story of the murders of Osage people during the 1920’s. It is a story of greed, power and violence that will hold you hooked from beginning to end – all bought to life by some vivid performances, not least from Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio and the simply stunning Lily Gladstone. Yes it is a long film (at just over three hours), but it will take hold of your attention from beginning to end.
Maestro: if ever there was a film that seems so filled with passion and dedication to its subject, then this biopic of Leonard Bernstein is surely up there. Its pin point focus on the composer and his wife Felicia Montealegre, is so beautiful as the way in which the film has been captured in a variety of styles, to highlight the different parts of their story and passing years together it is had not to be mesmerised by it. Highly recommended.
Operation Fortune: just as The Man from U.N.C.L.E and Sherlock Holmes, Guy Ritchie once again proves just how well he understands to get the balance between action and comedy just right. Operation Fortune was a complete riot to watch from start to finish but also leaves the audience wanting more! The cast are all clearly having the time of their lives, which makes it even easier for the audience to be swept away by it.
Barbie: uplifting, heartfelt, funny and thought provoking, Barbie and everything that she stands for has been given a whole new lease of life thanks to Greta Gerwig’s colourful film. It knows exactly how to use humour to highlight serious themes, without ever feeling heavy. Plus I will never see Ryan Gosling in the same way!
Yellow: this short film is clear and concise in the way in which it handles such a sensitive subject of the way in which women are having to deal with life living under the control of the Taliban. It might be a short film, but there is no doubting that it being understated helps to enhance the power of its message. Well worth watching.
Chicken Run: The Dawn of the Nugget: it is hard to believe that the original Chicken Run came out in 2000 – and never has a film been more deserving of a sequel! A few of the voices may have changed but the characters are back for more fun and adventures that has a mission impossible feel about it! If you are looking for a cracking good time…this is the film to find it!
Wish: in Disney’s 100th anniversary, this feels such an appropriate film to release as it is filled with plenty of Easter eggs for Disney fans to enjoy, while ensuring the company’s passion for combining storytelling and music is right at the heart of it. It is a heartwarming and enjoyable film.